Zimbabwe pairs one of Africa’s most famous natural wonders with genuinely excellent, less-crowded safari country – a real alternative to the more visited parks in neighboring countries.
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Top Things to Do in Zimbabwe
Explore Harare
Harare, the capital, is the country’s cultural hub – vibrant markets, historical sites, and lush gardens. The National Gallery of Zimbabwe, Harare Gardens, and Mbare Musika market are all worth the visit.
Take a Safari
Zimbabwe is widely regarded as one of Africa’s best safari destinations specifically for guiding quality – the country trains some of the continent’s most respected professional guides, and walking safaris here (particularly in Mana Pools) are a genuine specialty.
Visit Victoria Falls
One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World – known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (“The Smoke That Thunders”), spanning over a mile and dropping more than 350 feet. Guided tours, helicopter rides, and bungee jumping are all on offer.
See Bulawayo and the Surroundings
Zimbabwe’s second-largest city is rich in cultural and historical attractions – the Natural History Museum, the Railway Museum, and nearby Matobo National Park, known for its dramatic rock formations and ancient cave paintings, are all worth setting aside a few days for.
Ride the Bushtracks Express
A genuinely distinctive, fully equipped vintage train experience near Victoria Falls, worth booking if you have the time.
Go Hiking
The landscape genuinely suits hiking and trekking – mountains, waterfalls, and rock formations across the country offer real variety for different fitness levels.
Visit Hwange National Park
Zimbabwe’s largest game reserve, home to elephants, lions, and rhinos among a genuinely diverse range of wildlife.
Visit the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
These stone ruins, dating to the 11th century, are a genuine testament to the ancient Shona civilization’s architectural skill – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with guided tours that add real historical context.
Canoe on the Zambezi River
A genuinely good way to see the river’s wildlife and scenery up close, with both calm and more turbulent stretches depending on where you paddle.
Best Time to Visit Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe sits in the Southern Hemisphere, so its seasons run opposite to the Northern Hemisphere calendar most visitors are used to.
- Dry season (May to October) – the best window for wildlife viewing, since animals concentrate around remaining water sources. June-August is also the coolest stretch, genuinely chilly at night in some areas; September-October gets hot and dry, with the best game viewing of the year as water becomes scarcer.
- Wet season (November to April) – lush, green landscapes and dramatically higher water levels at Victoria Falls, but wildlife disperses more widely and some roads can become difficult.
Cost and Safety
Zimbabwe spans a real budget range – affordable hotels and local eateries alongside genuinely high-end safari lodges. Crime rates are generally low and locals are known for their hospitality; standard precautions (keeping an eye on belongings, avoiding isolated areas after dark) cover the real risk.
Visa Requirements
Most travelers from Europe, the US, Canada, and Australia can get a visa on arrival or apply online in advance – tourist visas typically run $30-75 depending on nationality, usually payable in cash. Check current requirements before traveling, since rules can change.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Language – English is widely spoken; communicating with locals is generally easy.
- Malaria – some regions, particularly around Victoria Falls, Hwange, and Mana Pools, carry malaria risk. Talk to a doctor about antimalarial medication before you travel.
- Currency – Zimbabwe runs a dual-currency system. The US dollar remains dominant for tourism – safari lodges, national parks, and tour operators generally quote and accept USD. Zimbabwe’s gold-backed ZiG (Zimbabwe Gold) is the official local currency, and you may receive it as change for small purchases; most visitors don’t need to actively exchange into it. Bring clean, undamaged USD bills printed after 2013, since older or marked notes are sometimes rejected. South African Rand is also accepted in border towns like Beitbridge and Mutare. ATMs can be unreliable, so don’t rely on them as your primary cash source.
- Cash safety – don’t display cash openly in crowded public areas, the same precaution worth taking anywhere.
- Photos – ask permission before photographing local people.
- Dress code – camouflage-patterned clothing is reserved for military use in Zimbabwe and shouldn’t be worn by civilians or tourists.
- Visiting neighboring countries – check visa requirements separately if your trip extends beyond Zimbabwe.
Hidden Gems Beyond the Main Sights
Nyanga National Park
Known for rolling hills, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife – genuinely one of the best spots for hiking and nature walks in the country.
The Eastern Highlands
Some of Zimbabwe’s most serene landscapes, well suited to hiking, bird watching, and exploring lush forest.
Lake Kariba
One of the largest human-made lakes in the world, with houseboat stays, fishing, and genuinely striking views.
Gonarezhou National Park
Less visited but genuinely rewarding, with strong wildlife viewing as part of the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park spanning multiple countries.
Conclusion
Zimbabwe rewards travelers willing to look past Victoria Falls alone – the safari guiding here is genuinely some of the best on the continent, and Bulawayo, the Eastern Highlands, and Lake Kariba all offer real depth beyond the obvious highlight.
FAQs
What is the easiest way to get to Zimbabwe?
Fly into Harare International Airport or Victoria Falls Airport, both with international connections.
Is Zimbabwe safe for tourists?
Yes, generally – standard travel precautions and awareness of your surroundings cover the real risk.
What currency should I bring to Zimbabwe?
US dollars, in clean, undamaged bills printed after 2013 – USD remains the dominant currency for tourism, with the local ZiG mainly showing up as change for smaller purchases.
What are the best dishes to try in Zimbabwe?
Sadza (a maize porridge), biltong (dried meat), and traditional stews are all worth trying, alongside local fruits and vegetables.
Do I need a visa to visit Zimbabwe?
Many travelers can get one on arrival or apply online in advance – requirements vary by nationality, so check current rules before traveling.
What health precautions should I take?
Talk to a doctor about antimalarial medication if visiting risk areas, drink bottled water, and be cautious with street food.
